9.22.2013

With an effervescence that clearly energized the sea of blue packing Sherman Gymnasium, Illinois College’s new president called on faculty and staff, students and alumni, and business and civic leaders of Jacksonville to help the college “embrace our strengths and move forward boldly.”

It was a message Barbara A. Farley has spread since her arrival on campus in June.
Now, though, with the presidential chain and medallion placed around her neck by Joy French Becker, chair of the college’s board of trustees, it appeared clear that a message was a mission.

Farley’s inauguration Saturday as the 14th president of the liberal arts college was attended by several thousand people, many of them praising her vision and passion for the college.